Mercury in Women Dropping

Blood levels of mercury in women of childbearing age in the U.S. have dropped by one-third since 2000, according to a new study from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This is apparently because more of them have been following recommendations about choosing fish that’s low in mercury.

That’s good news, since mercury is especially dangerous for fetuses (as well as young children). Women haven’t reduced their overall fish intake, which is fortunate because the omega-3 fats in fish are beneficial for both mother and unborn child.

The EPA and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advise women of childbearing age to avoid shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish because they are high in mercury. They should also limit albacore (white) tuna, most types of which have more mercury than canned light tuna.